My mom keeps asking what's going on at school, if I'm going to audition for the play, why I didn't try out for band, what my friends are doing, and stuff that's really my business. It's annoying and sometimes it's like she doesn't trust me. How can I get her to stop?
- Katie

If you don't share or talk much with your parents, they might feel the need to ask you questions to find out about your day, etc. It might seem like your mom is prying into your business, but she's probably just trying to keep your relationship strong. In fact, parenting experts often tell parents to stay connected to their kids by asking about what's going on in their lives.

Some parents do this better than others, of course. (And, unfortunately, some parents do ask questions because they don't trust their kids — especially if their kids have been in trouble.) So start by trying to give your parents the benefit of the doubt. Maybe they're just trying to stay close because they love and care about you.

That doesn't make the questions any less annoying, though. If you're tired of so many questions about your day, turn the tables — ask your mom about her day and use it as a way to practice your good listening skills. Or beat her to it: Tell her about your day before she asks. If you offer more info, conversations with your parents won't seem so much like a round of 20 Questions!

Reviewed by: D'Arcy Lyness, PhD
Date reviewed: April 2012

*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.